Doctors Advise Parents to Watch Out for Viral Infections, Dengue, Allergies, and Stomach Illnesses During the Monsoon

Back-to-School Season: Parents Must Pay Special Attention to Children’s Health, Say CARE Doctors

Hyderabad, 16 June: With schools reopening after the summer holidays, parents should pay special attention to their children’s health as they transition back to a structured school routine, according to Dr. Vittal Kumar Kesireddy, Head of Department & Senior Consultant Pediatrician – Pediatrics & Neonatology, CARE Hospitals.

He noted that the reopening of schools coincides with the monsoon season, a period when viral infections, allergies, stomach ailments, and mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue tend to increase among children. The first few weeks after schools reopen often see a rise in pediatric illnesses due to changes in routine, inadequate sleep, unhealthy eating habits developed during the holidays, and increased exposure to infections in school environments.

Dr. Kesireddy emphasized the importance of helping children gradually return to healthy daily routines. “Many children get accustomed to late nights, irregular meal timings, and increased screen time during the summer break. Parents should help them re-establish healthy sleep habits before the academic year gains momentum. School-going children generally require 8 to 10 hours of sleep every night for optimal growth, immunity, and concentration,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of not skipping breakfast. “Breakfast is the first source of energy for the day and plays a vital role in concentration, memory, and overall school performance. Nutritious home-cooked meals such as idli, dosa, upma, eggs, milk, fruits, and other balanced foods should be encouraged,” he added.

Highlighting the increased risk of infections during the rainy season, Dr. Kesireddy advised parents to reinforce basic hygiene practices among children. Frequent handwashing, especially before meals and after using the washroom, can significantly reduce the spread of common infections. Children should also be taught to cover their mouth while coughing or sneezing and avoid sharing water bottles whenever possible.

He further warned that contaminated food and water remain a common cause of stomach infections during the monsoon. Parents should ensure children carry clean drinking water from home and consume freshly prepared meals. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or dehydration should not be ignored and may require medical attention.

Dr. Kesireddy also urged parents to remain vigilant about dengue, which continues to be a major concern during the monsoon months. “Mosquito breeding can occur even in small collections of stagnant water around homes. Parents should regularly inspect their surroundings and eliminate potential breeding sites. Persistent fever, severe body pain, unusual fatigue, or headache should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional,” he said.

Children with allergies or asthma require additional care during the rainy season, he noted. Increased humidity, dust, mold, and weather fluctuations can trigger respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and breathing difficulties. Parents should ensure prescribed medications are readily available and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

Another commonly overlooked issue during the monsoon is prolonged exposure to wet clothes and footwear. Wet uniforms, socks, and shoes can increase the risk of skin and fungal infections. Parents should encourage children to change into dry clothes as soon as they return home after getting wet in the rain.

Dr. Kesireddy also highlighted the importance of emotional well-being as children adjust to a new academic year. While many children are excited to return to school, some may experience anxiety related to studies, examinations, new teachers, or a new classroom environment. Parents should spend time talking to their children, listening to their concerns, and offering reassurance whenever needed.

“Good health and good learning go hand in hand. Adequate sleep, nutritious food, proper hygiene, regular physical activity, and emotional support are essential for a child’s overall well-being. By taking a few simple precautions, parents can help ensure a healthier, happier, and more productive school year for their children,” Dr. Vittal Kumar Kesireddy concluded.